Monday, January 28, 2013

New production of Rossini Is Cinderella a delight

While all operas stand or fall on the quality of their singers, La Cenerentola presents a particular challenge, with solos replete with florid vocalization, full-out crescendos and sustained, flowing melodic lines.

But all soloists passed the test with full honors — and then some — in the production that premiered Saturday.

As Angelina — Rossini's Cenerentola, or Cinderella — mezzo Tara Erraught unleashed an array of coloratura fireworks in a role that affords opportunities for vocal pyrotechnics like few others.

"Non piu mesta" — where Angelina, the prince by her side, announces that she forgives her cruel step-sisters and step-father — is considered one of opera's most difficult arias. No problem for Erraught. Her rendition perfectly mirrored Angelina's transition from a servant singing a simple ditty at the fireside to a princess in full embellished voice.

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